Discover 9 Epic Tourist Spots in Tiruvannamalai You Can’t Miss!

Top 9 tourist Attractions in Tiruvannamalai Not To Be Missed

With the sacred Annamalai hills, spiritually infused hermitages, historic shrines resounding with chants and picturesque trails disappearing into the natural world, the temple town of Thiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu fascinates tourists. Explore the sites you need to connect with the sublime energy of these pilgrims and soul-seekers.

1.Annamalaiyar Temple

One of the largest Shiva complexes in South India, the ancient Annamalair temple is situated at the foothills of the Annamalai Hills and dates back to the Chola Empire. Spread over a 25-acre expanse, the intricately carved towers, reaching almost 200 feet, show the hallmarks of the famous Dravidian temple architecture. Admire the magnificent golden Kalasam on the mountain, the sacred tanks and the huge thousand-pillared hall. With lights, chanting and elaborate celebrations throughout the year, the temple attracts thousands of visitors, especially during Karthigai Deepam.

Key Facts:

• Built in the 9th century and renovated in the 12th century
• Temples of various deities from Durga to Ganapati
• A spectacular Rathotsav is celebrated twice a year
• Under the supervision of the Department of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments

2.Annamalaiyar Hill

The greenstone mountains of Annamalai, sometimes called the Arunachal Hills, are visible from a distance. It is home to constant spiritual vibrations that attract pilgrims and seekers of truth. According to an old legend, the hill represents Lord Shiva and circumambulation around its 14 km radius is sanctified. Adventurers can attempt the five-hour climb to the summit, which is more difficult after monsoons but is dotted with historic Shiva temples. The immaculate trees, breathtaking views and timeless quality of the hills enhance the meditative state wonderfully.

Key Facts:

• One of the largest hills in India, covering an area of 25 km2
• There are over a hundred sacred tanks as well as old, carved caves.
• The annual Karthigai Deepam Beacon Festival is centered here
• Administration of Annamalaiyar Temple:

3.Virupaksha Cave

Virupaksha Cave, located halfway up the Annamalai hill, is the site of the famous sage Ramana Maharshi’s nearly 20-year meditation where he attained self-realization. Devotees today trek uphill to visit his samadhi and are immersed in the peaceful energy that still resides in the place. Arunachal’s majestic presence is visible from rooms with Shivalinga Puja settings, ideal for solitary contemplation and intellectual conversation with the resident monks.

Key Facts:

• 1.5 km uphill from Skandashram
• Houses the venerable Patala Lingam of Sri Ramana
• Only open to morning and night visitors
• It comes under the supervision of Shri Ramanashram.

4.Skandashram

A short distance from the Annamali Heights is Skandasram, a quiet ashram connected to Sri Ramana, oozing with spiritual history from its rocky perch. Named after Lord Kartikeya, devotees can be seen meditating in the common Sri Chakra temple or simply taking in the sublime atmosphere from the mountainside cave shelter. The Shivlinga that the Maharishi worshiped during his penance is located in the middle walkway, along with an area for resting and reading literature.

Key Facts:

• Situated in the forest at an altitude of 1500 meters
• It was Sri Ramana’s residence for more than 20 years.
• A peaceful setting perfect for meditation
• Access requires a moderate 40-minute hike upwards.

5.Girivalam Path

Girivalam, or “Hill Round”, is a 14 kilometer trail that winds through the foothills of the Annamalai Hills. Thousands of people come here to pray, sing hymns and carry kavas. The vibrant atmosphere of the street reaches its peak during Karthigai Deepam, when a sea of lights illuminates the street in a display of Tamil devotion. There is a route with temples every kilometer for rest stops. From the Annamalaiyar temple, the walk heads east, passing a variety of dargahs, ashrams and secluded shrines tucked away in the surrounding landscape.

Key Facts:

• Eight Shivlingas scattered along the route are associated with mythological stories
• The temple chariot is driven on festival and full moon evenings.
• Street vendors offer refreshments to those who like to wander.
• Maintained by HR and CE department

6.Sathanur Dam

Located about 16 kilometers from Tiruvannamalai city, the picturesque Sathanur Dam spans the Pennaiyar River and is about 1 km wide and 150 feet high. Nestled in the forest of the Eastern Ghats, its reservoir offers guests boating and fishing, child-friendly parks and wilderness areas ideal for family outings. Administered by the Water Resources Department of Tamil Nadu with amenities like cottages, a cafe and a park currently under development, the morning offers a wonderful misty landscape and brilliant bird sightings around the place.

Key Facts:

• Completed in 1958 and equipped with an irrigation sluice exit
• Resident and migratory avian species of various origins
• The location provides expansive views of the valley beyond
• Under the supervision of the Department of Water Resources in Tamil Nadu

7.Gingee Fort

Strategically situated on three boulder hills in the Villupuram region, the elaborate Jingi Fort complex dates back to medieval times and is believed to be impregnable due to its strategic location. The forts of Rajgiri, Krishnagiri and Chandradurg here are connected by glittering walkways. Inside each fort are storerooms, granaries, temples and even 17th-century palaces fit for past royalty, evidenced by their fading decorative ornaments that still bear witness to the former glory that once ruled the grounds surrounding the site.

Key Facts:

• The fort complex covers an area of 11 square kilometers and three hills.
• There is a unique 17th century black granite idol of Krishna.
• The site of brutal French and British Carnatic wars
• Kept up to date by Archaeological Survey of India

8.Sri Ramana Ashram

In the heart of Tiruvannamalai city lies the peaceful Sri Ramanashram. It was founded in the 20th century by Guru Ramana Maharshi, who preached self-inquiry through silence and attracted disciples around the world with his energy, still evident in the ashram rooms where he lived and meditated. Participate in philosophical discussions, engage in meditation exercises to enter a state of heightened awareness, or contemplate the book collection and serene temple atmosphere.

Key Facts:

• An international pilgrimage site established in 1922
• Maintains Publication Department, Library and Charitable Hospital.
• Location: Annamalayar temple is 2 km away.
• Managed by a Trust nominated by the President

9.Ramana Maharshi Statue

An eight-foot bronze portrait of Guru Ramana Maharshi, oozing elegance, is located on the tree-lined Ramnasram road. It was run by loyal followers all over the world. His serene face, revered and garlanded like a temple, provides an ideal setting for introspection on his straightforward teachings, which support spiritual self-enquiry as a path to liberation or liberation. He is spreading the message of world peace with stone plaques behind world centers.

Key Facts:

• Completed in 2014, the statue is eight feet tall.
• There is an important inscription. Ramana’s “Who Am I?” coat
• Located away from Sri Ramana Ashram
• Sri Raman Center is maintained by the group

Immerse yourself in the sacred spiritual heritage that extends beyond the temples, to enter the glorious essence of Tiruvannamalai! A variety of experiences here offer a mystical gift to the seeker of inner travel, from hermitages remote from the natural world to mountain caves pulsing with spirituality.

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